tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355Sat, 03 Dec 2016 18:20:13 +0000child custodyHelpful Tip TuesdaydivorceNew JerseyPennsylvaniachild supportInspiration on a SaturdaycustodyOperation Organizationcustody factorsalimonyfacebookequitable distributionpaternitytaxesrelocationNew Jersey child supportholidaysIRSMerry Christmasadvice from a divorce clientbest interestschildren and divorcecollege expensescollege tuition and emancipationdomestic violenceprenuptial agreementsproperty settlement agreementssocial networkingsupporttermination of parental rightsCOBRANew Jersey alimonychildrenearning capacityemancipationlegal custodypasswordsprotection from abusesocial mediaLove statueappealschild custody tipscommunicationcredit reportdebtfamily petsmediationprivacyreal estatetaxGo PhilliesHappy New YearPennsylvania child supportQDROSelling Your Homeabuse of discretionbehavior in courtcalculating child supportchild support guidelinesco-parentingcollege tuitiondivision of propertydivorce in Pennsylvaniadivorce settlementfinal restraining orderinternetparentingpostnuptial agreementquote of the dayretirementshared custodysocial securityspousal supportvacationsChristmasEaglesHague ConventionMadoffNew Jersey Prenuptial AgreementsPFAPhiladelphia Family Courtarbitrationattorneys fee and costsblogsbudgetbudgetingcelebrity divorceschange in circumstancescheatingchild abusecollegecourtcredit card debtcustody of petsdefinitionsdependentsdivorce agreementdogseducationenforceable agreementfinancesharassmenthealth insurancehome buyinginsurancemarital residencemarriage certificatemortgagenegotiatingorganizingpassword securitypermanent alimonypersonal injury settlementprenuptial agreementquoterelocation and jurisdictionretirement accountsservicestandingsupervised visitationtax exemptiontax returnsthanksgivingtrialtuitiontwitterHouseLInda's LinksLabor DayLiz EarlyMarital Settlements AgreementsMarriage is a horse raceNJNew Jersey Grandparent VisitationNew Jersey divorcePhilliesPower of AttorneyStormerSupreme CourtVeteran's Dayabove-guideline supportadoptionappraisalartificial inseminationattorneyattorney-client privilegeback to schoolbeneficiariesbeneficiary designationblended familiesbreakupcause of actioncautioncelebritieschangechange in circumstancecivil liabilityco-parenting counselingco-parenting counsellingconfidentialityconsultationcontempt of custodycopy of tax returncosts of salecreditcredit scorecustody and safetycustody schedulescyber-securitydaddad's perspectivedate of valuationdeathdivorce behaviordivorce complaintdivorce strategyemailenforceengagement ringsestatesevidence from social mediafamily lawfinancialfinancial goalsfraudfuturegiftsguardian ad litemhigh incomehouse appraisalhumorimmigration lawsin vitro fertilizationinternational travelinternet divorce resourcesirreconcilable differenceslearnvestlegal advicelegal separationlife insurancelimited duration alimonylitigationmad sad gladmarital propertymental health issuesmodificationmodifymyspacename changenegotiationnet worthno faultnoticeonline datingpaperworkparent coordinatorpaying off debtpensionpersonal propertypetsphysical custodyplanningpost-emancipation supportposting details on the webpostnuptial agreementspre-embryos as marital propertypreparationprimary physical custodyprivacy and confidentialityprivate investigatorsprocess serverqualified domestic relations orderquotesreading your spouse's emailrefinancingreligionrestraining orderretroactivityrevengeseparationsettlement agreementssettlement negotiationssmall businessstandard of reviewstep-parenttalking parentsterminating parental rightstext messagingtrustsvaluesvisitation rightsvotewills104017 year divorce20113301d divorce90 daysAOPC websiteAPLAbuseAlec BaldwinAnne FrankAnne HecheAnnual FeeArtificial Insemination StatuteBilly CrystalBritneyBrooklynBusiness Decisions in DivorceCertificate of ParentageChanaChristopher ColumbusCitizens UnitedClerk filing feesContinuancesCost of LitigationCustody Statute changesDodgersEgyptElizabethElizabeth BokermannElonisEsquireFinal PFAFirst WIves WorldForm 4506-TForm 8332Form I-864EZGPS trackingGeneral AssemblyGruber relocation factorsHUD-1; home buyingHappy Birthday AmericaHappy HolidaysHappy Mother's DayIRS change of addressInquirerIrishJason KiddJustice CastilleLockYourDocsMLKMahr AgreementMarsha KleinmanMcGreeveyMini-COBRAMom or DadName Change of a Minor in PennsyvlaniaNew Custody StatuteNew Jersey CustodyNew Jersey Restraining OrderNew Jersey child support definition of incomeNew Jersey palimonyNew Pennsylvania Child Support Guidelines 2010New Philadelphia Family CourtNew YearNew York GiantNew financial systemOur Family WizardPennsylvania Child CustodyPennsylvania Judicial SystemPennsylvania child custody factorsPennsylvania child support changesPennsylvania custodyPennsylvania equitable distribution factorsPhiladelphia CountyPhoenix ConstructionPre-Marital AgreementsPresident's DayPrevention of Domestic Violence ActPriscilla CohenPsychology TodayPublication 504Rate your MarriageRegister an orderRobert FrostRonald ReaganSCDUSeptember 11SimonSocial Security Survivor BenefitsSouterSquid and the WhaleSt. Jude's Ranch for ChildrenState Board of NursingStaying married for the children's sakeStudent loansSupport deviationTemporary PFAThanksgiving humorToomeyTriple Crown AcademyUCCJEAValentine's Day HumorWeinerWhat Maisie KnewWillWinston CHurchillacceptance of serviceadoptive parentsadulteryadvice for parentsaffidavit of supportalcohol use and abusealice.comalimony factorsalimony modificationalimony pendente litealternate serviceanimosity and bickeringannouncementsanti-valentineappealappellate procedurearranged marriagesartassetsattitudeattorney feesattorney for childauthenticationautomobile insuranceavoiding negative talkbank accountsbankruptcybargainingbeneficiarybest interests standardbifurcated divorcebifurcationbillionairesbillsbiological motherbirth certificatebitter disputesboilerplate languagebonusbreachbreast feedingbreathalyzersbusiness likebusiness valuationcalculatorcalculatorscalendarscap ratecapitalization ratecar insurancecase statisticscelebritycertified mailchadwickchange addresseschanges to ruleschild abductionchild custody factorschild psychologistchild support calculatorschild support estimatorchild support formschild support with multiple familieschild support; emancipationchild witnesschoosing a lawyerchristmas cardsclaiming childrencohabitcomputersconfidenceconfidential addressconsultationscontact informationcontemptcontra proferentemcontractcontract interpretationcontrolcooperationcopingcorporal punishmentcost of divorcecost of living adjustments to child supportcounselingcouplescourt hearingcourt staffcourt-appointed counselcriminalcriminal docketscriminal historycriminal liabilitycross examinationcubacurbside pickupcustody agreementcustody agreementscustody calendarcustody evaluationscustody exchangecustody litigationcustody of a chimpcustody ordercustody orderscustody stipulationcustody trialdaily worthdatingdeath certificatedeductibledeedsdefaultdefault divorcedefenses to spousal supportdeferred compensationdelete your accountdependency deductionsdesignating a checkdeviationdeviation in child support casesdirect payment to childdisciplinedisclosuredisco is for kidsdiscretionary trustdisinheritingdissipationdividing assetsdivorce attorneydivorce by youtubedivorce cakesdivorce ceremoniesdivorce consultationdivorce decreedivorce dietdivorce giftsdivorce greeting cardsdivorce in the newsdivorce investment firmsdivorce is finaldivorce lawyerdivorce managementdivorce negotiationsdivorce planningdivorce ratesdivorce registrydivorce settlementsdnadoctrine of lachesdogs at the officedomestic relationsdraftingdressing for courtdue diligencee-maileconomic sanctionseconomyelderlyelective shareelectronic communicationemployeesending marriageengagement storiesenumerated offensesestate planningestoppelestranged spouseetg testsex parte proceedingexceptionsexemptionexit plansexpressing your feelingsexpunge recordexpungementextraordinary expensesez-passfactorsfair market valuefake diamond ringsfatherfather's dayfault divorcefeesfighting fairfiling your taxesfilmfinal decreefinality of divorcefinancial aidfinancial calculatorsfinancial detectivefinancial discussions before marriagefinancial infidelityfinancial planningfinancial stressfinancial tuneupfinding a lost parentfirst amendmentflash photographyfoiling a pickpocketfootballforbes best websites for womenforeclosureforensic accountingforgivenessformsfrivolous motionsfull and fair disclosureg. lovegenetic testinggpsgrandparent custodygray divorcegross negligencegrounds for divorcegunhalloweenhappinesshealth care power of attorneyhealthcare powers of attorneyhearsayheightened emotionshiding assetshigh income caseshigh income support caseshigh profile caseshigh-conflict custody casehiring a family law attorneyhollywoodhollywood child supporthome inspectionshome inspections in a divorcehome inventoryhome schoolhome statehome-buyers credithomeworkidentificationidentify theftimpact of divorce on childrenimproving your credit scoreimputing incomein loco parentisincapacitatedincarcerationincomeincome capacityincome for purposes of supportincome taxincompetentinconvenient forumindependent contractorsinfidelityinherit from childinheritancesinnocent spouseinspirationintact familiesinternational abductioninternet divorcesinterviews of childreninterviews with childrenintestacyintestateinvoluntary commitmentirrevocable trustsjewelryjoint and severaljoint and several liabilityjoint creditjoint debtjoint physical custodyjoint tax returnjudgesjudgment of divorcejudicial interview of a childjurisdictionkeeping your wallet safekidneykidskinship guardianshipknocked uplaw dictionarylearnvest.com. marriagelegal settlementslife's lemonslinksliving willslong term separationlovelow cost healthcarelucy phonemailmake life more pleasantmaking it easier on your kidsmanaging financesmanaging householdmanaging your divorcemarginal cost estimationmarriagemarriage contractsmarriage preparationmaterial defectmatrimonial early settlement panelmedia and Dominic Barbaramediatormedical informationmedical recordsmental health recordsmidlife divorceminorminor name changesmom's perspectivemomentum of marriagemonetary settlementsmoney managementmortgagesmovies about divorce and custodymovingmusicnatural parentsnegative talkneglectnegligencenesting as a custody arrangementnew child custody rulesnew legislationnew romancenominate usnon-disparagement clausesnon-military servicenon-modifiable alimonynon-precedential decisionnotariesnotification provisionsobjectionsonline accessonline communicationsonline managementonline marriage counselingonline presenceonline reputationorganizationorganizeother household incomeout of pocket expensesoverturning divorce settlementpalimonyparallel parentingparental abductionparental discretionparental dutiesparental rightsparenting classesparenting coordinationparenting timepassport alertpastpaternity by estoppelpaternity testpaternity testspenaltiespersonal serviceperspectives of childrenpoorly written agreementsposthumousposthumously conceived childrenpre-school choiceprecedential valuepreparing for divorcepresentpreserving your right to appealprimary custodyprivate schoolprocedural due processprocedural rulesproofreading agreementspsychological parentpublic policypublic schoolpublicationspugpurchasing a homequotedre-entering the workforcereactions in the courtroomread and re-readreal estate appraisalreal estate disclosuresreal estate transactionreal propertyreasonablenessrecordingrefinancing a mortgagerehabilitative alimonyreimbursement alimonyreligious disputesreligious marriage contractsrelocatingrelocation custody Pennsylvaniaremediesrentrenters insurancereproductive technologyresidential leaserestraining ordersright to privacyrights and responsibilitiessale of marital residencesanctionsscamschool assignmentsschool bussecond marriagesself employedsellingselling your home after breaking upseparate tax returnseparation dateserving a complaintshoppingshort saleshort-term marriagesimple questionssinglesmall space playsnowsoberlinksocial security disabilitysoldierssole legal custodysopranossperm donorspousal privilegespouse's signaturespring breakstatisticsstatute of fraudsstatutesstay at home dadsstay-at-home parentstep-parentsstepfamiliesstress reliefstruggling with relationshipsubject matter jurisdictionsuperior courtsupplemental security incomesupport guidelinessurrogacysurveillancesweettask management websitetax breakstax consequencestax implications of diorcetax tipstax transcriptstax wihholdingteenage drivertelevision dramas and custodytelling your spousetemporary restraining ordertemporary suspension of child supportterminal illnesstermination of child supporttestifyingtext messagestextingtherapythree poniestime managementtipstips for custodytracing assetstraditionstranscribing voicemailstransitionstrial leveltristan prettymantrust incomeun-divorceunder water mortgageunemancipatedunpublished decisionsusernamesvacations child custody tipsvalentinevenueveteran disability paymentsveterans benefitsvideovitabandvocational expertvoicemailswaiver of child supportwaiverswealthywebsitewedding humorweekendwheels of justicewife as breadwinnerwire fraudwiretappingwisdomwithholdingworking mothersworking with an exyoutubeLINDA'S LAW BLOG @ LINDAKERNSLAWQuestions, answers, comments, queries, thoughts, ruminations, information, analysis and perspectives on law, especially family law, divorce, child support, custody, equitable distribution, alimony and taxes by a Pennsylvania and New Jersey lawyer, located in Philadelphia.http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/noreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)Blogger1088125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-8764828402858817618Wed, 28 Sep 2016 16:35:00 +00002016-09-28T12:41:18.055-04:003301d divorcenew legislationPennsylvaniaSignificant change to Pennsylvania Divorce Law<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJQfU2ZzD0M/V-vyY_46QGI/AAAAAAAAE9E/ZT3BvY4aQA8b_OultHNOVIBeAu-9Lpp0gCLcB/s1600/oneyearimage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AJQfU2ZzD0M/V-vyY_46QGI/AAAAAAAAE9E/ZT3BvY4aQA8b_OultHNOVIBeAu-9Lpp0gCLcB/s200/oneyearimage.jpg" width="135" /></a><br /><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br />The Pennsylvania Senate recently voted to amend the Pennsylvania Divorce Code to shorten the time for a separation under section 3301D of the Divorce code <b><span style="color: red; font-size: x-large;">from two years to one year</span></b>. &nbsp;Once Governor Wolf signs the bill into law, it will become effective in 60 days. &nbsp;The shorter waiting period only affects divorces filed AFTER the law is passed. &nbsp;To read a complete copy of the amendment, <b><a href="http://www.legis.state.pa.us/CFDOCS/Legis/PN/Public/btCheck.cfm?txtType=PDF&amp;sessYr=2015&amp;sessInd=0&amp;billBody=H&amp;billTyp=B&amp;billNbr=0380&amp;pn=2474" target="_blank">click here</a></b>.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/133/336446382_85a8b75620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for how a bill becomes a law" border="0" height="178" src="https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/133/336446382_85a8b75620.jpg" title="" width="200" /></a></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/09/significant-change-to-pennsylvania.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-2050186975853450343Wed, 10 Aug 2016 16:47:00 +00002016-08-10T12:47:00.130-04:00What is Discovery? <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Discovery is a process used in litigation where each side turns over all relevant evidence to the other party.&nbsp; In divorce cases, the evidence includes documents that relate to the assets, debts and income.&nbsp; Parties can use the formal discovery process which involves interrogatories, depositions, subpoenas and the like.&nbsp; However, that process can get expensive and might not be necessary in simple cases. &nbsp;</span><br /><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0rHz03ASho/V3P7GSGJC_I/AAAAAAAAEtI/93X9nzVyNCMF9Fz2r5az7DDVJ3toucVZgCLcB/s1600/Gavel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J0rHz03ASho/V3P7GSGJC_I/AAAAAAAAEtI/93X9nzVyNCMF9Fz2r5az7DDVJ3toucVZgCLcB/s200/Gavel.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>In some ways, a divorce is like any other lawsuit in that the court rules usually allow us to conduct formal discovery.&nbsp; Formal discovery can include written interrogatories to the other party, request for production of documents, real estate appraisals, business appraisals, forensic accounting, depositions and the like. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Not everyone conducts formal discovery in every case.&nbsp; Sometimes, parties are satisfied that they are fully aware of the assets and the debts and other financial information of themselves, the other party and any joint assets or debts.&nbsp; In those instances, parties usually exchange informal discovery by way of letters between themselves or their attorneys.&nbsp; They then waive their right to formal discovery.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Z_358kg5HY/V3P7hOOc5pI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/017myunJjR0Yw8y_UMOmyqvLnL4xyDbUgCLcB/s1600/Legal%2Bfiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0Z_358kg5HY/V3P7hOOc5pI/AAAAAAAAEtQ/017myunJjR0Yw8y_UMOmyqvLnL4xyDbUgCLcB/s200/Legal%2Bfiles.jpg" width="133" /></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Whether or not to conduct formal discovery depends on your level of knowledge of the case.&nbsp; As with all aspects of litigation, the cost of formal discovery can be significant in time, legal fees and expenses.&nbsp; Therefore, parties must determine whether or not it is appropriate in their individual case.&nbsp; Please note that if you send a formal discovery request, the other side will most likely reciprocate so you will also have the duty to produce information.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>When parties choose to waive formal discovery, they are most likely required to do so in writing, either in a final Property Settlement Agreement or prior to or during a trial.&nbsp; This prevents someone from later using as a defense that they were not aware of the financial circumstances or other issues in the matter. &nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Even when parties waive formal discovery, they can still exchange documents so that they are satisfied as to their knowledge of all aspects of the case.&nbsp; Before asking the other side to produce documents, first determine what you have.&nbsp; If an account is joint, you should be able to get the same statements as the other party.</div><div><br /></div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The type and amount of discovery should be discussed with your attorney as part of your overall case strategy. Make sure you understand the assets and debts of both you and your spouse, as well as each other's income and earnings history, before resolving any divorce case.</div></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/08/what-is-discovery.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-5848470154210710812Wed, 03 Aug 2016 16:40:00 +00002016-08-03T12:40:01.273-04:00Protect Your Online Safety and Security <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; If you are involved in domestic relations litigation, it is a good idea to establish a private email address with a new password that the other party would not be able to guess. There have been many cases when family law litigation has been compromised because the other side was reviewing voicemails and/or emails. It is surprising how easy it is to guess someone else’s password.&nbsp; Accordingly, use new and random words. &nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EsXgxcr_yM/V3P51S9naOI/AAAAAAAAEs8/Em57B4uVDDgzDgjCIh48p9jAW02kJb4CgCLcB/s1600/Cell%2Bphone%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3EsXgxcr_yM/V3P51S9naOI/AAAAAAAAEs8/Em57B4uVDDgzDgjCIh48p9jAW02kJb4CgCLcB/s200/Cell%2Bphone%2B2.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>You may have a work email address.&nbsp; However, as most people realize, employers and fellow employees can sometimes access that account. In order to keep your family law matters as private as possible, consider establishing a new and private email address and make sure that no one else can access it. In addition, change all passwords on your cell phone, voicemail and email accounts.&nbsp; It is also a good idea to &nbsp;change passwords on any other online accounts to which the other party may have access. In addition to changing passwords, change all security questions to answers that no one will guess.&nbsp; Remember, it is easy for someone close to you to know your mother’s maiden name.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/08/protect-your-online-safety-and-security_3.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-478120615708756670Wed, 27 Jul 2016 16:13:00 +00002016-07-27T12:13:01.004-04:00Why is Your Credit Report Important in a Divorce? <div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Most everyone knows that divorce involves dividing assets.&nbsp; However, along with assets, debts must be divided.&nbsp; Many couples have credit card debt: either in one party’s name alone or joint credit card debt.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>The first step is to gather as much information as possible regarding the debt: account names and numbers, debt balance as of date of separation, name on credit card, recent statements, etc.&nbsp; A credit report can prove to be an excellent resource for this task.&nbsp; Three main credit report agencies provide reports for a fee:</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxphg1chhPE/V3Py1KgJjTI/AAAAAAAAEsg/oh1Gip71drAETNxiYOgzsnq0ltIA59fpgCLcB/s1600/Credit%2BReport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pxphg1chhPE/V3Py1KgJjTI/AAAAAAAAEsg/oh1Gip71drAETNxiYOgzsnq0ltIA59fpgCLcB/s200/Credit%2BReport.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Equifax-&nbsp;<a href="tel:%28800%29%20685%201111" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank" value="+18006851111">(800) 685 1111</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.equifax.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.equifax.com</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Experian (formerly TRW) -&nbsp;<a href="tel:%28888%29%20397%203742" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank" value="+18883973742">(888) 397 3742</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.experian.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.experian.com</a>&nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Trans Union -&nbsp;<a href="tel:%28877%29%20322-8228" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank" value="+18773228228">(877) 322-8228</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="tel:%28800%29%20680-7289" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank" value="+18006807289">(800) 680-7289</a>&nbsp;-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.transunion.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.transunion.com</a>.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>You may also obtain a credit report on the following website:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.annualcreditreport.com/" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">www.annualcreditreport.com</a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Generally, in Pennsylvania, marital debt includes any debt incurred during the marriage, regardless of how titled. As with all general rules, there are exceptions and limitations. If you feel that certain debt should not be marital, begin to gather documentation, such as statements documenting what was purchased. As a drastic example, if all of the credit card debt is due to one spouse’ gambling habit, a court may not consider that debt marital and instead ask the spouse who is responsible for incurring the debt to repay it.&nbsp; However, there is a strong presumption that debt incurred during the marriage is subject to equitable distribution, regardless of who incurred it.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gj-UqaDOILo/V3Pzu2YGeQI/AAAAAAAAEss/2MbxB34jFw0i9Nd3UJxweCqNW2yyk4IugCLcB/s1600/Credit%2Bcards%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gj-UqaDOILo/V3Pzu2YGeQI/AAAAAAAAEss/2MbxB34jFw0i9Nd3UJxweCqNW2yyk4IugCLcB/s200/Credit%2Bcards%2B2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>After separation, in order to keep things orderly, it is a good idea to keep non-marital debt separate. Open a new credit card for post-separation spending. Try not to continue using credit cards that still carry marital debt.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>If you are able, close joint credit cards at separation. If your spouse is an authorized user on your credit card, investigate whether he or she can be removed. This may save a headache later by keeping post-separation debt separate and giving you peace of mind that your spouse is not racking up debt in your name.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Sometimes couples choose to pay off debt with marital assets in order to provide for a fresh start. Whatever the plan, whenever possible, continue to pay all minimum payments so that your credit is not affected.</div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/why-is-your-credit-report-important-in.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-7921859595967251905Wed, 20 Jul 2016 16:03:00 +00002016-07-20T12:03:03.632-04:00Documents to Bring to Your First Meeting with Your Lawyer for a Family Law CaseIn order to help you prepare for your first meeting, you should gather as many of these documents as possible.&nbsp; If you cannot find them, or do not have access to them, do not worry- your lawyer will be able to help you with obtaining all of the documents that you need.&nbsp; For your first meeting, however, having these documents ready will assure that you are providing your attorney with accurate information.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Gk3hPMBsLA/V3PuT5Ne3UI/AAAAAAAAErk/P4HD0BBbw_8w31LZ66cq1mXnbJu5EIpyACLcB/s1600/Marriage%2BCertificat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Gk3hPMBsLA/V3PuT5Ne3UI/AAAAAAAAErk/P4HD0BBbw_8w31LZ66cq1mXnbJu5EIpyACLcB/s200/Marriage%2BCertificat.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Divorce</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Marriage Certificate</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Any Documents You Have Received (Divorce Complaint, Letter from an Attorney, etc.)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Recent Paystubs for you and your spouse</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hECp9xGvGso/V3PulHwxefI/AAAAAAAAErw/_jo9jkxi-1423C4bHeX7WYwalyzNEClJACLcB/s1600/House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hECp9xGvGso/V3PulHwxefI/AAAAAAAAErw/_jo9jkxi-1423C4bHeX7WYwalyzNEClJACLcB/s200/House.jpg" width="200" /></a>Recent Tax Returns (at least two years)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Information on your House (mortgage statement, value of house, real estate tax bill, etc.)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Automobile Information (how is it titled, how much is owed, how much is the payment)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_22mUKHjcz4/V3PvMqjaILI/AAAAAAAAEr4/7tDkud6hGvMPmryLOaxUyUD5WqfONYbIQCLcB/s1600/Credit%2BCard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_22mUKHjcz4/V3PvMqjaILI/AAAAAAAAEr4/7tDkud6hGvMPmryLOaxUyUD5WqfONYbIQCLcB/s200/Credit%2BCard.jpg" width="200" /></a>Bank and Investment Statements &amp; Retirement Account/Pension Plan Statements</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">List of Valuable Personal Property (jewelry, artwork, collections)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Information regarding Other Real Estate owned</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Credit Card, Personal Loan and/or Student Loan Statem<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">ents</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Written Agreements between you and your Spouse</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mR00C-AyvI4/V3Pv4ydDf7I/AAAAAAAAEsE/fRsyGt5U2cIjPfeD44Soosgce_n-4JyrQCLcB/s1600/School%2Bchildren.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mR00C-AyvI4/V3Pv4ydDf7I/AAAAAAAAEsE/fRsyGt5U2cIjPfeD44Soosgce_n-4JyrQCLcB/s200/School%2Bchildren.jpg" width="200" /></a>Insurance Information: Health, Life, Automobile</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Picture of Opposing Party if service of process will be an issue</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Support Cases</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Recent Paystubs for you and the other party</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Tax Returns (preferably for the previous two years)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Zc85F3UDN8/V3PwqNJnVnI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/Mymy_0yNBdkXc7eKcRmKyik5Gd_vMIvHQCLcB/s1600/Googls%2BMaps.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Zc85F3UDN8/V3PwqNJnVnI/AAAAAAAAEsQ/Mymy_0yNBdkXc7eKcRmKyik5Gd_vMIvHQCLcB/s200/Googls%2BMaps.png" width="200" /></a></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Health Insurance Information</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Extraordinary Expenses: tuition, daycare, camp, extracurricular activities</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Custody Cases</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Work Schedules</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Distances between various points: school-work-daycare-homes</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Children’s Schedules (activities, etc.)</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Your Preferred Custody Schedule</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Holidays Celebrated; Vacation Preferences</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Cases Where There Have Already Been Court Proceedings</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">All Court Documents/Orders/Pleadings</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Correspondence</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">A Printout of All Docket Entries - This can be obtained at the clerk's office.</div></div><div><br /></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/documents-to-bring-to-your-first.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-8336167401551730374Sun, 17 Jul 2016 15:46:00 +00002016-07-17T11:46:02.733-04:00Unknown Quote<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8pp16mo36xU/V3PtF3iWGkI/AAAAAAAAErY/DAtAHSdzwdAchwnyRp306L4M5Fmblv6mgCLcB/s1600/Engagement%2BRing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8pp16mo36xU/V3PtF3iWGkI/AAAAAAAAErY/DAtAHSdzwdAchwnyRp306L4M5Fmblv6mgCLcB/s200/Engagement%2BRing.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;georgia&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif; font-size: large;"></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;georgia&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;georgia&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: &quot;georgia&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;georgia&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span><span style="font-family: &quot;georgia&quot; , &quot;times new roman&quot; , serif; font-size: large;">"I married Miss Right. I just didn’t know her first name was Always."</span><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , sans-serif;">~ Unknown</span></span>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/unknown-quote.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-1079669264294828871Sun, 17 Jul 2016 15:42:00 +00002016-07-17T11:42:04.992-04:00<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hCyRPic8H-Q/V3PsPM61WYI/AAAAAAAAErM/ExVg_y96a7k3QzuOrDP_xng_40AijkKlACLcB/s1600/Heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hCyRPic8H-Q/V3PsPM61WYI/AAAAAAAAErM/ExVg_y96a7k3QzuOrDP_xng_40AijkKlACLcB/s200/Heart.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 26px;"></span><br /><div style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'DejaVu Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, 'DejaVu Sans', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: large;">"Divorce is the psychological equivalent of a triple coronary bypass."</span><br /><br /><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 16px; line-height: 26px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">&nbsp;~ Mary Kay Blakely</span></span>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/divorce-is-psychological-equivalent-of.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-817799995892453547Wed, 13 Jul 2016 15:36:00 +00002016-07-13T11:36:03.094-04:00Tips for Working Out Holiday Custody Schedule<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rn3j5ag4UKo/V3PoYRbDotI/AAAAAAAAEqM/0Sti06BzJTMel2pw-Y7pl4s9NQ_d9QZDgCLcB/s1600/Easter%2Beggs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rn3j5ag4UKo/V3PoYRbDotI/AAAAAAAAEqM/0Sti06BzJTMel2pw-Y7pl4s9NQ_d9QZDgCLcB/s200/Easter%2Beggs.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>When you work out a child custody schedule - paying attention to the details about holidays will save you frustration and anxiety later.&nbsp; First, list all of the holidays that you celebrate along with any special traditions.&nbsp; For example, if your family always has a day after Thanksgiving breakfast, an Easter Egg Hunt on the day before Easter or a picnic to celebrate the end of the school year, write that down so that you remember to include it in your custody schedule.&nbsp;<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pO4jxzOXLl8/V3Ppgfc4c9I/AAAAAAAAEqg/psO0gilj3CYV74_hkpL_ataO5YMFJVvywCLcB/s1600/Hanukkah%2Bcandles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pO4jxzOXLl8/V3Ppgfc4c9I/AAAAAAAAEqg/psO0gilj3CYV74_hkpL_ataO5YMFJVvywCLcB/s200/Hanukkah%2Bcandles.jpg" width="153" /></a></div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GhKHM9-LOSQ/V3PpGoQToJI/AAAAAAAAEqY/XUdue3crdvMsIbpn_Gxb-4CQmeYU6npFwCLcB/s1600/Fireworks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GhKHM9-LOSQ/V3PpGoQToJI/AAAAAAAAEqY/XUdue3crdvMsIbpn_Gxb-4CQmeYU6npFwCLcB/s200/Fireworks.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /><br />Here is a list of holidays to get you started but there may be others that you celebrate:<br /><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Martin Luther King Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">President’s Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Spring Break</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Passover &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Easter &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Mother’s Day</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Father’s Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Memorial Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Fourth of July</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Labor Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Columbus Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Veteran’s Day</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Fall Break &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Rosh Hashanah &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Yom Kippur</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Halloween &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Thanksgiving &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Christmas Eve</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Christmas Day &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">New Year’s Eve &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">New Year’s Day</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">Winter Break &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Hanukkah</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><div>Remember the following:</div><div><br /></div><div>1. If you travel, what would be the best <b>pickup </b>and <b>drop-off times</b>.&nbsp; For example, if you spend Thanksgiving at a relative’s house, two hours away, allow for travel time.</div><div><br /></div><div>2. Who should provide <b>transportation</b>?</div><div><br /></div><div>3. Are there holidays that you celebrate and your spouse does not? Use as a bargaining chip.</div><div><br /></div><div>4. Consider your<b> work schedule</b> and the children’s <b>school schedules</b>.</div><div><br /></div><div>5. If there is a&nbsp;<b><span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1400078085" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Monday</span></span>&nbsp;holiday</b>, would you like it to include the entire weekend or just&nbsp;<span class="aBn" data-term="goog_1400078086" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(204, 204, 204); border-bottom-style: dashed; border-bottom-width: 1px; position: relative; top: -2px; z-index: 0;" tabindex="0"><span class="aQJ" style="position: relative; top: 2px; z-index: -1;">Monday</span></span>&nbsp;during the day?</div><div><br /></div><div>6.&nbsp; Would you like to define <b>Thanksgiving </b>as the entire weekend, to allow for travel?</div><div><br /></div><div>7. Should <b>school breaks</b> be alternated and rotated or divided midweek?</div><div><br /></div><div>8.&nbsp; Would you like your custody schedule to include <b>Mother’s </b>or <b>Father’s birthday</b> or the <b>child’s birthday</b>?</div><div><br /></div><div>9.&nbsp; Go through the list carefully – are there <b>other holidays</b> you would like to add that your family celebrates?</div><div><br /></div><div>10.&nbsp;<b> Reduce all agreements to writing</b> and have it incorporated into an enforceable court order.&nbsp; You can always negotiate changes between yourselves but, in the event of a misunderstanding, you will have a set agreement on which to rely.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iMEcuSNA7zE/V3Pq26G91UI/AAAAAAAAEq4/ZLAQH_f_T5Y1rgOrUPkUs9_s8XoSAUXjQCKgB/s1600/Christmas%2Btree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iMEcuSNA7zE/V3Pq26G91UI/AAAAAAAAEq4/ZLAQH_f_T5Y1rgOrUPkUs9_s8XoSAUXjQCKgB/s200/Christmas%2Btree.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mHPFg5jEREI/V3PrSCBGHBI/AAAAAAAAErA/eLQcdNU0WXoae1zzDvmRLIB3JoAtp69TgCLcB/s1600/Halloween.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mHPFg5jEREI/V3PrSCBGHBI/AAAAAAAAErA/eLQcdNU0WXoae1zzDvmRLIB3JoAtp69TgCLcB/s200/Halloween.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpS_jZp69zA/V3Pqlqxl_VI/AAAAAAAAEqs/QiLCe6GeBJQsbDZgahppq-ef6oJ3NyMWACLcB/s1600/Thanksgivign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FpS_jZp69zA/V3Pqlqxl_VI/AAAAAAAAEqs/QiLCe6GeBJQsbDZgahppq-ef6oJ3NyMWACLcB/s200/Thanksgivign.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/tips-for-working-out-holiday-custody.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-2617338648224440527Sun, 10 Jul 2016 15:18:00 +00002016-07-10T11:18:06.933-04:00Joe Hill Quote<br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 21px;"><span style="font-size: large;">“Taking a thing apart is always faster than putting something together. This is true of everything except marriage.”&nbsp;</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 21px;" /></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21px;">―&nbsp;</span><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/88506.Joe_Hill" style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Lato, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; line-height: 21px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Joe Hill</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; line-height: 21px;">,&nbsp;</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; line-height: 21px;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1049073" style="color: #333333; font-family: Lato, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">20th Century Ghosts</a></span><br /><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Lato, Helvetica Neue, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, serif; line-height: 21px;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/1049073" style="color: #333333; font-family: Lato, 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4YX_7IrAsY/V3Pmr0uPW3I/AAAAAAAAEqA/NwqH3NRAys0_onMFN4b2DZ0bP6hlKajQACLcB/s1600/Divorce%2BDecree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B4YX_7IrAsY/V3Pmr0uPW3I/AAAAAAAAEqA/NwqH3NRAys0_onMFN4b2DZ0bP6hlKajQACLcB/s1600/Divorce%2BDecree.jpg" /></a></div><br clear="all" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif;" /><br /><div><br /></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/joe-hill-quote.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-4344160042900596696Wed, 06 Jul 2016 15:13:00 +00002016-07-06T11:13:00.996-04:00Valuing Automobiles<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZtBJNYdZSc/V3PjNWHcWVI/AAAAAAAAEpo/g_4nBd-6nqIrXIzbZU318vgFo6BNDaCwQCLcB/s1600/car.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZtBJNYdZSc/V3PjNWHcWVI/AAAAAAAAEpo/g_4nBd-6nqIrXIzbZU318vgFo6BNDaCwQCLcB/s200/car.jpg" width="200" /></a>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; In a divorce matter, automobiles are generally considered marital assets. It is a good idea, once the divorce proceedings begin, to obtain the current fair market value of the automobiles. Visit the following websites to obtain current values:&nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="http://www.kbb.com/" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">www.kbb.com</a><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp;</span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(Kelley Blue Book)</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">www.</span><a href="http://edmunds.com/" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 12.8px;" target="_blank">edmunds.com</a><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZlAXjQcvMU/V3PkLLm4qZI/AAAAAAAAEpw/-ANNOWvS8YkHF-0xhJwtShGxM4v-fIBiACLcB/s1600/money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZlAXjQcvMU/V3PkLLm4qZI/AAAAAAAAEpw/-ANNOWvS8YkHF-0xhJwtShGxM4v-fIBiACLcB/s200/money.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>Each website asks for details regarding the condition of the automobile as well as the accessories and extras. You can usually obtain a trade-in, private party and retail value. &nbsp;<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Print out the appraisals for each automobile of the marriage, whether it is titled jointly or in one person’s name, and save the documents.&nbsp;</span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; If there is a loan against the car, save the statement that shows the amount owed on the loan.&nbsp;</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; It is best to estimate the value as close to the date of separation as possible.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> </span>If you automobiles are leased, the fair market value is not necessarily relevant to your divorce case. However, you should obtain a copy of the leasing agreement, so that you understand the payment structure and the terms of a trade in.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;">&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Gathering this information at the beginning of a divorce case will save you the hassle of trying to recreate it later.</div><div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px;"><br /></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/07/valuing-automobiles.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-4520638561212580548Wed, 29 Jun 2016 14:56:00 +00002016-06-29T10:56:20.825-04:00How to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing in Pennsylvania or New Jersey<br /><ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0tVzI4ivo9w/V3PgoPFqHPI/AAAAAAAAEpQ/wjyVOMHYNX0OTlCvpY76qqA62WVRLN59QCLcB/s1600/Cell%2Bphone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="163" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0tVzI4ivo9w/V3PgoPFqHPI/AAAAAAAAEpQ/wjyVOMHYNX0OTlCvpY76qqA62WVRLN59QCLcB/s200/Cell%2Bphone.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7aj0_cKFsD0/V3Pf-rkD84I/AAAAAAAAEpE/1snyeFMVarwGc33-2DUqLCT3PvKBkzcKACLcB/s1600/2016%2Bcalendar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7aj0_cKFsD0/V3Pf-rkD84I/AAAAAAAAEpE/1snyeFMVarwGc33-2DUqLCT3PvKBkzcKACLcB/s200/2016%2Bcalendar.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecooWIAoRfs/V3PhSJQiGfI/AAAAAAAAEpc/6FqBnEjC75YrvQPOLcsaGeGCF-yquTRWwCLcB/s1600/Stack%2Bof%2BFiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ecooWIAoRfs/V3PhSJQiGfI/AAAAAAAAEpc/6FqBnEjC75YrvQPOLcsaGeGCF-yquTRWwCLcB/s200/Stack%2Bof%2BFiles.jpg" width="200" /></a><br /><br /><li><b>Review the factors</b> in the Custody statute for your state to help you gather your thoughts. &nbsp;</li><li><b>Prepare exhibits</b>. &nbsp;Emails and text messages must be printed and clearly show who wrote it and who received it as well as the date.&nbsp;</li><li>Court often involves waiting. &nbsp;Sometimes, the waiting can be extensive. &nbsp;<b>Bring a few things to keep you occupied.</b> &nbsp;Having something to do will keep your anxiety in check and help you to pass the time.&nbsp;</li><li><b>Know where you are going. Estimate the travel time.</b> &nbsp;Courts have metal detectors and x-ray machines, much like airports, so it may take time to get through security. &nbsp;Have your Scheduling Order handy so you can find your courtroom.&nbsp;</li><li><b>Be prepared with details that concern you. &nbsp;</b>What time is best for exchanges? &nbsp;Does the holiday schedule account for your family's traditions and needs? Compare your holiday schedule with the school schedule. &nbsp;When do you take vacations? &nbsp;Do they need to be scheduled around the children's activities? &nbsp;The Court will not have the time or inclination to bring up the details, so make sure to have these issues prepared with possible resolutions.&nbsp;</li><li>Testifying can be anxiety provoking. &nbsp;Litigants often speak too quickly or too softly so even if their testimony is relevant, the Judge can't understand it. &nbsp;<b>Practice speaking slowly and clearly</b> so you are ready.&nbsp;</li><li><b>Review everything that was filed in your case</b> (the complaint or petition, etc.). &nbsp;You may be asked about these documents.&nbsp;</li></ol>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/06/how-to-prepare-for-child-custody_65.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-7781277764392445116Tue, 21 Jun 2016 19:28:00 +00002016-06-21T15:55:09.498-04:00Unlawful Termination Due to DivorceThe New Jersey Supreme Court just issued a decision finding that termination of employment due to an employee's pending separation and divorce was <span style="font-size: large;"><b>unlawful discrimination</b></span>. &nbsp;<span style="text-align: center;">Read the full decision </span><a href="http://www.judiciary.state.nj.us/opinions/supreme/A1914RvM.pdf" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">here</a><span style="text-align: center;">.</span><br /><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xN7NpU1Moxo/VhaySglJ-0I/AAAAAAAABx0/Mt2tHFpKYo4tWwdY4MbMCMXBruNW8HNBgCKgB/s1600/00315542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xN7NpU1Moxo/VhaySglJ-0I/AAAAAAAABx0/Mt2tHFpKYo4tWwdY4MbMCMXBruNW8HNBgCKgB/s320/00315542.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/06/new-jersey-supreme-court-found.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-3483234274054233218Sun, 19 Jun 2016 17:12:00 +00002016-06-21T15:52:11.636-04:00New Custody Relocation Case from Pennsylvania Superior Court<div class="separator" style="display: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img height="150" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/5a/Faimly.jpeg" width="200" /><br /><br />Custody relocation cases forever alter the child's relationship with both parents and result in the child spending significantly less time with one parent, and that parent's family. &nbsp;The Superior Court of Pennsylvania recently issued an opinion on a complicated relocation matter regarding a child with special needs. &nbsp;You can read the opinion <b><a href="http://www.pacourts.us/assets/opinions/Superior/out/J-A07008-16o%20-%201026969847323707.pdf?cb=1" target="_blank">here</a>.</b></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/06/new-custody-relocation-case-from.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-1238246061849185272Sun, 19 Jun 2016 15:49:00 +00002016-06-19T11:49:34.396-04:00QDROretirementHow Are Retirement Plans Divided When I Get Divorced?<br /><div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br /><div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&amp;id=OIP.M35c39a992ebc1bccee7f5a4966f092c1o0&amp;w=300&amp;h=250&amp;c=0&amp;pid=1.9&amp;rs=0&amp;p=0&amp;r=0" /></div><br /><br />In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, even if your spouse worked and you did not, the retirement plans accrued during the marriage will be marital property, subject to division. &nbsp;Both Federal and State law require a Qualified Domestic Relations Order ("QDRO") to divide employer sponsored retirement plans, to avoid tax consequences and early withdrawal fees for either spouse.<br /><br /><a href="https://tse4.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Me982f68157559f92b53fdc7b863fe50co0&amp;pid=15.1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://tse4.mm.bing.net/th?id=OIP.Me982f68157559f92b53fdc7b863fe50co0&amp;pid=15.1" /></a><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>What is a QDRO (pronounced “Quadro”)? </b></span><br /><br />A QDRO is a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, and is the court order used to divide qualified retirement plans between spouses. &nbsp;If spouses wish to divide their pensions or retirement plans as part of their divorce, they will need a QDRO to separate the accounts. <br /><br />QDROs require care in drafting and an understanding of the legal and financial complexities of retirement plans. &nbsp;Unfortunately, poorly drafted QDROs often slip through the cracks, resulting in negative financial consequences.<br /><br />While a QDRO is often one of the last items to be completed in a divorce, it can be the most important, especially if the retirement plans compromise a significant part of the marital estate. &nbsp;Make sure that you understand the process.<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #274e13;"><br /></span></b>1. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="color: #274e13; font-weight: bold; white-space: pre;"> </span><b style="color: #274e13;">Know the type of plan.</b> &nbsp;A defined benefit plan, simply put, pays a monthly amount at retirement. &nbsp;A defined contribution plan, simply put, allows the party to contribute tax free dollars into a retirement account to be withdrawn, usually in intervals, at retirement. &nbsp;QDROs for defined benefit plans differ from QDROs for defined contribution plans.<br /><br />2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Because<span style="color: #274e13;"><b> a QDRO is a court order and a legal document</b></span>, the plan name must be correctly named. When companies are bought, sold and merged, the names of plans can change. The plan name in the QDRO must be the correct, complete legal name. &nbsp;Sometimes, parties or their lawyers confuse the name of the fiduciary trust company – such as “Vanguard” – with the plan name. If the participant spouse (the spouse who owns the plan) has a 401(k) plan with Widget Company, but the money is held in accounts with Vanguard then the correct plan name would most likely be Widget 401(k) Plan NOT Vanguard 401(k) Plan. &nbsp;Check your plan name with the plan administrator before drafting your QDRO. <br /><br />3. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><span style="color: #274e13;">What happens if the plan gains or loses money?</span></b> &nbsp;You may have $100,000.00 in your retirement plan as of the date of separation, but the market could crash and your balance could drop to only $75,000.00 as of the date the QDRO is put into effect. &nbsp;How do we account for the changes in value and make sure both spouses take part in the risks and rewards associated with the plan? &nbsp;The QDRO must address the provision for increases and/or decreases in the amount of money going to the alternate payee (the spouse who is receiving a portion of the plan). If the alternate payee automatically shares in gains and losses, then both parties benefit from market increases and share in the risks of a volatile market.<br /><br />4. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: #274e13;">Picking a valuation date.</span> &nbsp;Check with the plan before choosing a valuation date because some plans only use specific dates, such as the end of the month or the end of the quarter.<br /><br />5. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Who are the named beneficiaries? &nbsp;<span style="color: #274e13;"><b>What if the alternate payee dies</b></span> before he or she receives their distribution? &nbsp;Some plans require that the QDRO name additional alternate payees or include language that provides that the funds are paid to the estate of the alternate payee. &nbsp;Know what the plan permits and draft your QDRO to account for unexpected deaths.<br /><br />6. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Combining a percentage and a dollar amount. <span style="color: #274e13;"><b>When the drafter of a QDRO uses ambiguous language, chaos ensues</b></span>. &nbsp;For example, if the QDRO states that the alternate payee receives 50% of the account balance less $15,000.00, different lawyers could interpret this provision different ways. &nbsp;Does the $15,000.00 gets subtracted first, then 50% set aside, or, do we set aside 50% taken, then $15,000.00 gets subtracted? &nbsp;Be precise in the language and realize that your document must stand on its own and allow only one interpretation. <br /><br />7. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>What benefits are available: &nbsp;Make sure you understand the<span style="color: #274e13;"><b> benefit options </b></span>available under the plan. &nbsp;Some plans will not allow the alternate payee to choose to have the benefit paid for the lifetime of the alternate payee instead of the lifetime of the participant, and making that choice in the QDRO will cause rejection by the plan administrator. &nbsp;Understand what the plan provides and draft accordingly. <br /><br />8. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>When do payments begin?</b></span> Understand when the terms of the plans will allow payments to begin. &nbsp;In a defined contribution plan, if the plan prohibits it, an alternate payee cannot request an immediate distribution of funds. &nbsp;In a defined benefit plan, an alternate payee cannot request a time for the plan to begin paying benefits that contradicts the plan policy. &nbsp;Be specific when requesting a starting date for benefit payments and make sure the starting date conforms to the rules of the plan. &nbsp;The QDRO should allow the alternate payee the option of choosing when payments begin, but only as allowed by the plan, usually at a designated retirement age or another designated date.<br /><br />9. <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Form of payment.</b></span> Designating a form of payment that is not consistent with plan guidelines will ensure a rejection by the plan administrator. Many parties mistakenly assume that a traditional defined benefit plan will allow a lump sum distribution, but, realistically speaking, most will not offer that form of payment. &nbsp;Make sure you understand how the benefits will be paid.<br /><br />10. In defined benefit plans (pensions), is there a <span style="color: #274e13;"><b>Survivor Annuity Benefit</b></span>? &nbsp;The cost must be factored into the QDRO. &nbsp;Spouses must take care that their payments will continue, even after their ex-spouse dies.<br /><br /><span style="color: #274e13; font-size: large;"><b>QDRO's are complicated documents that require time and expertise to prepare. &nbsp;The cost will usually be divided between the spouses. &nbsp;Pay careful attention to this part of your divorce.</b></span>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/06/how-are-retirement-plans-divided-when-i.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-7922837771688584377Mon, 09 May 2016 21:45:00 +00002016-05-09T17:45:20.814-04:00Approach Your Divorce in Business-like MannerI was recently quoted in an article on cheatsheet.com regarding divorce advice: <a href="http://www.cheatsheet.com/health-fitness/the-best-divorce-advice-ive-ever-received.html/2/" target="_blank">click here</a>.http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/05/approach-your-divorce-in-business-like.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-8374771739421481885Tue, 19 Apr 2016 15:00:00 +00002016-04-19T11:00:08.418-04:00e-mailinternetprivacysocial mediasocial networkingPreserving Your Internet Privacy During Divorce LitigationAfter a separation, it’s only natural to wonder what your spouse is doing. Litigants often try to gain information by carefully watching their spouse’s social media activity. As we have said before, litigants should always be careful what they post on social media during litigation. In addition to tracking social media, some litigants have been known to try hacking into a spouse’s e-mail account to gain information.<br /><br />Due to the nature of a marital relationship, it is possible that your spouse may know or be able to guess at your e-mail password. A spouse may also know the answers to your security questions. Litigants should always change their passwords and security questions when separating from their spouses. Watch carefully for anything that could indicate an intrusion – many e-mail platforms now will tell you when the account was last accessed, and almost all will send you alerts when someone changes your password. Many platforms also allow a two-stage login process, where the account holder is required to input a code sent to his or her &nbsp;mobile phone via text or an app to gain access. Litigants can utilize all of these tools to proactively protect themselves.<br /><br />Litigants should <b>never</b> try to access their spouse’s e-mail account. Doing so is a serious, and likely illegal, intrusion of privacy. While the law around electronic privacy is still developing, a recent Mississippi Supreme Court case emphasizes just how seriously courts take such an intrusion. In <a href="http://www.courts.mo.gov/file.jsp?id=99378">In Re: Joel B. Eisenstein, No. SC95331, April 5, 2016</a>, an attorney was suspended for a minimum of twelve months because his client hacked into the ex-spouse’s e-mail account and provided the documents to the attorney. When the attorney realized how the information was obtained, he failed to immediately notify the opposing counsel, and actually used the information in the case.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--A-gzeYD0jc/Vw-WLasyEiI/AAAAAAAAADw/nEFgR-SFLQs0sNmNwRWdHF8-n5h54QhVACLcB/s1600/MP900422409.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--A-gzeYD0jc/Vw-WLasyEiI/AAAAAAAAADw/nEFgR-SFLQs0sNmNwRWdHF8-n5h54QhVACLcB/s320/MP900422409.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br />The Mississippi Supreme Court characterized the client’s action as a “method of obtaining evidence that violat[ed] the legal rights of [the other litigant].” <u>Eisenstein</u> at 4. This is a clear indication that courts take violations of the other litigant’s privacy very seriously. The <u>Eisenstein</u> case did not discuss what eventually happened to the attorney’s client, but, it is safe to assume that, even if his actions did not result in an unfavorable outcome in the litigation, he has ruined his chances at ever reaching a good working relationship with his ex-spouse.<br /><br />While it can be tempting to want to know what your spouse is doing during a separation or contentious court battle, remind yourself that states are increasingly regulating internet privacy intrusions, and your actions could have serious, if not criminal consequences. <b>Never</b> try to hack into your spouse’s private internet accounts, and take proactive steps to prevent any attacks on your own privacy.<br /><br /><i style="background-color: #ffead6; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b style="background-color: white;">his blog was written by Jill Fitzgerald, third year law student at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and edited by Linda A. Kerns, Esquire.</b></i>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/04/preserving-your-internet-privacy-during.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-108162209802213160Thu, 14 Apr 2016 12:58:00 +00002016-04-14T08:58:05.691-04:00child supportchildren and divorcecollegecollege expensescollege tuitioneducationNew Jersey child supportNJtuitionYour Child is Going to College! If You Are Divorced in New Jersey, Who is Going to Pay for it?With National College Decision Day coming up right around the corner, it is time to talk about the real college question: how to afford it. In an intact family, parents make decisions about college together. Questions of which college the children will attend and how much the parents will contribute are answered by consensus. Some parents can contribute a significant amount to their children’s college expenses, and some cannot. Some children will have an unrestricted choice of schools, while others will be constrained to the public option due to their parents’ financial resources.<br /><br />In New Jersey, a series of court cases helps determine how families should pay for college when separated and divorced parents cannot agree. The landmark Supreme Court case <a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=7859429993948270286&amp;hl=en&amp;as_sdt=6&amp;as_vis=1&amp;oi=scholarr">Newburgh v. Arrigo</a>, 88 N.J. 529 (NJ 1982) established the following list of factors for courts to consider when determining parental contributions to higher education:<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(1) Whether the parent, if still living with the child, would have contributed toward the costs of the requested higher education;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(2) the effect of the background, values and goals of the parent on the reasonableness of the expectation of the child for higher education;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(3) the amount of the contribution sought by the child for the cost of higher education;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(4) the ability of the parent to pay that cost;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(5) the relationship of the requested contribution to the kind of school or course of study sought by the child;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(6) the financial resources of both parents;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(7) the commitment to and aptitude of the child for the requested education;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(8) the financial resources of the child, including assets owned individually or held in custodianship or trust;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(9) the ability of the child to earn income during the school year or on vacation;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(10) the availability of financial aid in the form of college grants and loans;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(11) the child’s relationship to the paying parent, including mutual affection and shared goals as well as responsiveness to parental advice and guidance, and;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(12) the relationship of the education requested to any prior training and to the overall long-range goals of the child.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;"><b>While this list appears extensive, subsequent decisions have interpreted the primary goal of the factors as replicating the decision-making process of an intact family.</b></span> For example, the parents’ relationship with the child, as well as their actual ability to contribute to higher education costs, would likely determine the parents’ contribution in an intact family. Parents would also consider the fairness of contributing to one child’s education when other teenage children will also soon attend college and the family might need to conserve resources.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>A recent New Jersey Trial Court case, <a href="http://www.leagle.com/decision/In%20Adv%20NJCO%20140903-000697/BLACK%20v.%20BLACK">Black v. Black, Docket No. FM-15-310-10-N, June 26, 2014</a>, demonstrates how the Newburgh factors are applied in combination to help the court reach an equitable result.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In <u>Black</u>, the parties’ property settlement agreement stated that they would both contribute to the three children’s college expenses, although both parties earned modest salaries. Father and the oldest child were estranged, with the oldest child refusing to attend reunification counseling following the parties’ divorce. Father maintained a relationship with the parties’ two other children, and made efforts to heal the relationship with the oldest child, to no avail.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>When the oldest child decided to attend Rutgers, Mother asked Father to contribute to the expenses. Father refused, in part due to his lack of a relationship with the oldest child. After his first year at Rutgers, the child wanted to transfer to a more expensive private school. As the parties could not agree on who would pay the college expenses, they asked the Court to decide.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YvtBGzh67Ws/Vw-SYBTbLyI/AAAAAAAAADk/bTBxg_XFpOwiaAywVWaKE66QABlX2xl4QCLcB/s1600/MP900448665.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YvtBGzh67Ws/Vw-SYBTbLyI/AAAAAAAAADk/bTBxg_XFpOwiaAywVWaKE66QABlX2xl4QCLcB/s320/MP900448665.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The Court in <u>Black</u> started with the issue of the estrangement between Father and the Child. Analogizing the situation to an intact family, the Court reasoned that a child who refused to have a relationship with his parents in an intact family would be unlikely to receive money for college expenses. However, the Court distinguished between the child refusing a relationship with the parent and a non-custodial parent refusing to have a relationship with the child. Because of the realities of divorce, the Court wanted to ensure that parents cannot abandon their children to avoid financial responsibility. Eventually, the <u>Black</u> Court held that Father would be required to contribute to the oldest child’s college expenses contingent on the child agreeing to attend counseling sessions with Father.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The <u>Black</u> Court then turned to the issue of ability to pay. Because both parents had modest incomes, the Court determined they would only be able to contribute a modest amount to the children’s higher education, and that those contributions should be evenly shared among the children. The Court found it inappropriate to require either parent to stretch their financial position with additional debts, such as a second mortgage or 401(k) loan, though it noted that either or both parents could voluntarily choose to do so.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Finally, the Court in <u>Black</u> looked at the choice of schools. The Court held that the child was entitled to attend any school he wanted, so long as he could find a way to pay for it. The parties would be required to contribute the same amount regardless of which school the child selected. The Court specifically noted that, had money not been an issue, the child most likely would have received a greater contribution from the parents.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Litigants should keep in mind that college can be an enormous expense, and, even if parents are not involved in the college selection process, they may still be required to contribute in New Jersey cases. Parents should stay involved as their teenagers begin the college selection process, and be sure to provide input on possible choices and expected contributions. Visit the schools with your children. Manage their expectations. Explain your ability to contribute, and, if necessary, assist your child with exploring grants, loans and scholarships. Stay in close contact with the other parent so that you are both on the same page.<br /><br /><i style="background-color: #ffead6; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b style="background-color: white;">This blog was written by Jill Fitzgerald, third year law student at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and edited by Linda A. Kerns, Esquire.</b></i>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/04/your-child-is-going-to-college-if-you.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-611801464466565798Fri, 01 Apr 2016 14:00:00 +00002016-04-01T10:00:12.839-04:00civil liabilityfamily petspetsFurry Family Members: Liability Concerns for Pet-Owning PennsylvaniansPets can be very important family members, but, just like children, they require significant amounts of supervision. An unsupervised or poorly behaved pet could expose its owners to personal liability. Under Pennsylvania law, pet owners are only liable for injuries caused by their pets where the pet owner intentionally causes the animal to harm someone or was negligent in failing to prevent the harm. <a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=18207462683002568508&amp;hl=en&amp;as_sdt=6&amp;as_vis=1&amp;oi=scholarr">Kinley v. Bierly</a>, 876 A.2d 419 (Pa. Super. 2005). Negligence means that the owner did not take reasonable steps to prevent potential harm. However, if the pet owner knows or should have known that the animal is abnormally dangerous, based on previous behavior, the pet owner is strictly liable for injuries that occur. This means that you are liable even if you take reasonable precautions to prevent harm.<br /><br />In a recent Pennsylvania Superior Court Case, <a href="http://www.pacourts.us/assets/opinions/Superior/out/J-A27002-15o%20-%201025639696523234.pdf">Franciscus v. Sedvick</a>, 2016 Pa. Super. 52, the Court extended the pet owner liability laws to dog-walkers who were in control of the animal at the time of the harm.<br /><br /><span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b>The dog-walkers were found to be subject to the same standards as pet owners. If the dog-walker did not know the dog was potentially dangerous, the negligence standard would apply. However, if the dog-walker had reason to believe the dog could be dangerous, he was strictly liable for any harm that occurred on his watch.</b></span><br /><br />In <i>Franciscus</i>, a child was bitten when the dog-walker gave the child permission to pet the dog. The Court found evidence of the dog-walker’s knowledge of potential danger in the owner instructions provided to the dog-walker, which stated that the dog should be muzzled and was not to interact with children or other dogs. The Court also noted that the owner’s door had a posted “Beware of Dog” sign.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hJMijyI8khE/VvLBnM3JlrI/AAAAAAAAADQ/jyrzoqFZXBAUH3TutqTnjhjvqgKwzmgDw/s1600/MP900401866.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hJMijyI8khE/VvLBnM3JlrI/AAAAAAAAADQ/jyrzoqFZXBAUH3TutqTnjhjvqgKwzmgDw/s320/MP900401866.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Pennsylvania pet owners should be sure to disclose all behavioral problems to their dog-walkers, pet-sitters, and any other people who handle their animals. Pet owners should also be sure to take reasonable precautions to prevent harm, even if they do not think their particular pet is dangerous. &nbsp;Walking your dog on a leash is always a good idea, and, in many localities, dog owners can be fined for not taking this most basic precaution, even if no injuries occur. Pets are a large responsibility, and pet owners should make all possible efforts to protect themselves, their pets, and the public.<br /><br /><i style="background-color: #ffead6; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b style="background-color: white;">This blog was written by Jill Fitzgerald, third year law student at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and edited by Linda A. Kerns, Esquire.</b></i>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/04/furry-family-members-liability-concerns.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-122043668347765061Tue, 29 Mar 2016 15:00:00 +00002016-03-29T11:00:15.504-04:00attorney for childchild custodyguardian ad litemWho Will Pay for an Attorney for Your Child?&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Many times, in custody litigation, parents are so certain that their position regarding their children is correct and that their children are not being “heard,” that they request an attorney for their child. &nbsp;However, courts rarely appoint attorneys for children as, absent extraordinary circumstances, separate representation for the child is simply not needed. &nbsp;The court decides a child’s best interest, not the child. &nbsp;Additionally, parents often do not manage their expectations and wrongly believe that the child’s attorney will automatically side with their point of view. &nbsp;However, unfortunately for these parents, in many cases, the child’s attorney could end up with a third view point so that the judge must sift through the arguments from 3 different points of view, the mother, the father and the child, rather than 2 different points of view, which would be the mother’s and the father’s. &nbsp;As custody determinations focus on the child’s best interests, having separate representation for the child is usually not necessary as, presumably, the court and both parents are looking out for the child’s best interests.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">In Pennsylvania, in addition to an attorney for the child, the Court can appoint a guardian ad litem for a child if necessary. &nbsp;Pursuant to the statute, the guardian ad litem will:</span></b><br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Meet with the child as soon as possible following assignment . . . and on a regular basis thereafter in a manner appropriate with the child’s age and maturity;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>On a timely basis, be given access to relevant court and county agency records, reports of examination of the guardians or the child, and medical, psychological and school records;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Participate in all proceedings, including hearings before masters, administrative hearings and reviews to the degree necessary to adequately represent the child;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Conduct such further investigation necessary to ascertain the facts;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Interview potential witnesses, including the child’s guardians, caretakers and foster parents, examine and cross-examine witnesses, and present witnesses and evidence necessary to protect the best interest of the child;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>At the earliest possible date, be advised by the county agency having legal custody of the child of:<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(a)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Any plan to relocate the child or modify custody or visitation arrangements, including the reasons, prior to the relocation or change in custody or visitation; and<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>(b)<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Any proceeding, investigation or hearing under the Child Protective Services Law . . . directing affecting the child;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Make any specific recommendations to the court relating to the appropriateness and safety of the child’s placement and services necessary to address the child’s needs and safety, including the child’s educational healthcare and disability needs;<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>8.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Explain the proceedings to the child to the extent appropriate given the child’s age, mental condition, and emotional condition; and<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>9.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Advise the court of the child’s wishes to the extent that they can be ascertained and present to the court whatever evidence exists to support the child’s wishes. &nbsp;When appropriate, because of the age or mental and emotional condition of the child, determine to the fullest extent possible the wishes of the child and communicate this information to the court. <br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The guardian ad litem in Pennsylvania is different than direct legal counsel for a child as an attorney would generally represent only the legal interest of the child while the guardian ad litem would represent both the legal interest and best interests of the child (which interests may not always comport with the child’s wishes). &nbsp;Obviously, appointing a guardian ad litem for your child or even an attorney for a child, is a complicated process and involves invasive and comprehensive participation by yet someone else in the very private family matters of child custody. &nbsp;As the roles are defined by statute, parents should be familiar with what the law allows to make sure a child’s attorney or guardian ad litem does not overstep their bounds. &nbsp; <br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><b><span style="color: #20124d; font-size: large;">Many parents do not understand that they can be charged for the fees incurred by a guardian ad litem or an attorney for the child.</span></b> &nbsp;Recently, in the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, a father sued the Justices of the Matrimonial Parts of the Supreme Court of Suffolk County, challenging the constitutionality of the law in New York that authorized the state judge to order a parent to pay for attorneys appointed for the children. &nbsp;The father’s complaint was dismissed at the trial level and that dismissal confirmed at the appellate level as the federal court found that the state court has the ability to perform its judicial function in divorce and custody proceedings and therefore has the ability to make these decisions. &nbsp;The name of the case is <a href="http://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/ca2/15-863/15-863-2015-11-12.html">Falco v. Justices of the Matrimonial Parts of the Supreme Court of Suffolk County</a>, docketed at 15-863-cv.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Notably, while some parents believe that the non-specified “court” or “state” or “government” will pay for representation for their children in custody matters, the costs will most likely be shifted to the parents. &nbsp;In cases of abuse or neglect, an attorney for the child or guardian ad litem could be necessary. &nbsp;Presumably, if the child’s parents commit abuse or neglect, another individual must protect the child’s best interests. &nbsp;However, parents should think carefully before seeking this type of involvement by other professionals in their case. &nbsp;The existence of allegations of abuse or neglect exist does not guarantee the appointment of a guardian ad litem or attorney for the child. &nbsp;The court decides the issue on a case by case basis. &nbsp;If the court insists on appointing a child an attorney or guardian ad litem, work with that person to pursue what should be a common goal - the child or children’s best interests.http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/who-will-pay-for-attorney-for-your-child.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-794673885739783321Sun, 27 Mar 2016 04:30:00 +00002016-03-27T00:30:12.161-04:00Happy Easter!<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&amp;id=OIP.M6521f3c7706cd60c18d6dba73c2b73f8o0&amp;w=300&amp;h=168&amp;c=0&amp;pid=1.9&amp;rs=0&amp;p=0" /></div>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/happy-easter.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-6700048993961338740Fri, 25 Mar 2016 14:00:00 +00002016-03-25T10:00:08.903-04:00New Jersey Grandparent Visitationvisitation rightsGrandma’s Got Rights? Grandparent Visitation in New JerseyIn an intact family, a child’s parents decide with which extended family members the child will have a relationship, and what that relationship will look like. However, when the parents split up, or one parent passes away, extended family relationships can get complicated.<br /><br />When both parents have parenting time with the child, generally, the parent currently exercising his or her parenting time has the right to decide which extended family members the child will see, and how often. Either parent is welcome to take the child to see their extended family members, but neither is required by law to do so.<br /><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><b>Parents have a Constitutional due process right to raise their children as they see fit, including decisions about allowing the child to visit extended family members. However, issues often arise when one parent has passed away, and the remaining parent limits the time the child spends with the other parent’s extended family.</b></span><br /><br />Many states, including New Jersey, have developed “Grandparent Statutes” which give Grandparents the right to petition for visitation of a grandchild where the child’s parent has prevented it. Because of the constitutional issues surrounding parenting rights, these statutes are narrowly written, and even more narrowly construed.<br /><br />In New Jersey, in order to gain visitation rights to a grandchild under <a href="http://law.onecle.com/new-jersey/9-children-juvenile-and-domestic-relations-courts/2-7.1.html">N.J.S.A 9:2-7.1</a>, the Grandparent Visitation Statute, the Grandparent must prove by a preponderance of the evidence that the child will suffer harm if the Grandparent is not allowed to have visitation with the child. The court will then set a visitation schedule that is in the “best interests of the child.”<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SgIdiZCgGFg/Vuq1p9-etHI/AAAAAAAAAC4/EfBXmp0iN4A8zO8d7v2Av3pKeumaiDd_A/s1600/MP900422164.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SgIdiZCgGFg/Vuq1p9-etHI/AAAAAAAAAC4/EfBXmp0iN4A8zO8d7v2Av3pKeumaiDd_A/s320/MP900422164.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />When a Grandparent files for visitation rights, the Grandparent must make a <i>prima facie </i>showing of harm to the child. Essentially, this means that the Grandparent must convince the Court that the Grandparent could, if offered the opportunity, prove that the child would suffer harm if prevented from seeing the Grandparent.<br /><br />What constitutes a <i>prima facie</i> showing of harm? The answer is, it depends. Custody decisions are always factually specific analyses performed by the Court, often making the outcomes less than predictable. One of the best ways to predict the outcome of any given factual circumstance is to look at the way courts have treated certain circumstances in the past.<br /><br />In <a href="http://law.justia.com/cases/new-jersey/supreme-court/2016/a-110-13.html">Major v. Maguire</a>, A-110 January 12,2016, the Supreme Court of New Jersey addressed just such an issue. In <i>Major</i>, the Paternal Grandparents petitioned for visitation of the grandchild after the passing of the grandchild’s father. During the Father’s life, the Grandparents visited the Father regularly, between once a week and once a month, when he had custody of the grandchild. The Grandparents attended many of the grandchild’s activities, including dance recitals, and accompanied Father and the grandchild on vacations.<br /><br />&nbsp;After the Father became ill with cancer, the Grandmother lived with Father part-time at first, and then, toward the end of his illness, full-time. The Grandfather also visited the Father and performed caregiver tasks for the grandchild when she was in her Father’s custody.<br /><br />In the <i>Major</i> case, the Court found that the Grandparents had shown a <i>prima facie</i> case that the child would be harmed if prevented from visiting with them. The Court placed weight on the recent trauma to the grandchild in losing her Father, as well as the significant caregiving role the Grandparents played prior to the Father’s death.<br /><br />Like all custody situations, similar facts can often result in dissimilar outcomes. The Court’s finding for the Grandparents in this case does not mean that the Grandparents will ultimately win visitation time with the grandchild. All this means is that the Grandparents have the opportunity to return to Court and present evidence.<br /><br /><span style="color: #660000; font-size: large;"><b>Litigants should be aware that the bar for a <i>prima facie</i> case is very high under Grandparent Visitation statutes.</b></span> Because parents have a constitutional right to raise their children, an argument for visitation must be especially compelling to proceed in Court. Litigants should consider all their options before filing a petition for visitation. In addition to being lengthy and expensive, Grandparent visitation litigation is likely to further damage the Grandparent’s relationship with the surviving parent. Litigants should weigh the strength of their case carefully before proceeding to Court.<br /><br /><i style="background-color: #ffead6; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b style="background-color: white;">This blog was written by Jill Fitzgerald, third year law student at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and edited by Linda A. Kerns, Esquire.</b></i>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/grandmas-got-rights-grandparent.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-521439877252928653Wed, 23 Mar 2016 18:46:00 +00002016-03-23T14:46:44.190-04:00child supportdirect payment to childNew JerseyIn New Jersey, Is It Ever Appropriate to Pay Child Support Directly to a Child?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><br /><br /><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;"><b>The short answer to this question is no.</b></span> &nbsp;Parents pay child support to each other to be used for the needs of the children. &nbsp;New Jersey Child Support laws provide custodial parents autonomy in managing their financial affairs and the needs of the child. &nbsp;However, in New Jersey, some "children" still subject to child support orders are actually young adults attending college, with part time jobs.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.investitwisely.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/CollegeGraduation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="172" src="http://www.investitwisely.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/CollegeGraduation.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />Recently, a Judge in Ocean County considered a case wherein the Father requested that he pay his child support directly to his 21 year old daughter, a junior in college, reasoning that she needed it for expenses associated with her education. &nbsp;Mother objected, as she needed the child support to maintain the household where their daughter lived. &nbsp;<b><span style="color: #7f6000; font-size: large;">The Court evaluated the case and concluded that while there could be some instances where he would order that at least a portion of the child support be paid directly to the child, in this case, the financial situations of the parties and the amount of the child support did not warrant a direct payment to a child.</span></b> &nbsp;You can read the full opinion <b><a href="http://www.judiciary.state.nj.us/decisions/kayahan%20%20opinion%20P.pdf" target="_blank">here</a></b>. &nbsp;Understand that this opinion is not reported and therefore without precedential value. &nbsp;However, unreported opinions provide guidance into a court's reasoning.<br /><br />http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/in-new-jersey-is-it-ever-appropriate-to.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-4462201227335695405Tue, 22 Mar 2016 14:00:00 +00002016-03-22T10:00:17.608-04:00child abductioncustodycustody and safetyHague Conventioninternational abductioninternational travelInternational Child Abduction and the Hague Convention&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Unfortunately, parents sometimes kidnap their children in the United States. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_313803040"></span>Amber Alerts<span id="goog_313803041"></span></a>, sent to all the cell phone subscribers in an area, frantic <a href="http://6abc.com/news/amber-alert-cancelled;-suspect-in-custody-and-girl-safe/1105540/">police manhunts</a>, and stories of children recovered <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/US/ohio-man-pleads-guilty-kidnapping-son-13-years/story?id=35507965">years later</a> &nbsp;have all dotted the newspapers over the past few months.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>International abductions, however, sometimes fly under the radar. Some parents take their children on international vacations, with the other parent's consent, and simply never return. Others, such as in the case of <a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=9913284891815598725&amp;q=Cillikova+v.+Cillik&amp;hl=en&amp;as_sdt=6,39&amp;as_vis=1">Cillikova v. Cillik</a>, Civil Action No.15-2823 (D. N.J. 2015), just disappear. In <i>Cillikova v. Cillik</i>, for example, the children’s father and primary custodian took the children, who lived in Slovakia, to New Jersey, without telling their Mother, and did not return. Mother first learned that Father had taken the children to the United States when she called him after she discovered that the children’s cellular phones were not working. By this time, Father and the children were already getting settled in New Jersey.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Because the United States is a signatory of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (“the Hague Convention”), the Mother in <i>Cillikova v. Cillik</i> was able to file a petition to have the children returned to Slovakia.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b>Under the Hague Convention, custody matters involving the children must be adjudicated in the children’s home country, which is the state where the children lived, attended school, and primarily resided prior to the wrongful removal. The Hague Convention requires that the children must be returned to the home country unless one of a few narrow exceptions is met, or unless the children are over the age of sixteen.</b></span><br /><span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>&nbsp;<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The goal of the Hague Convention is to “restore the status quo prior to wrongful removal or retention” and to prevent parents from taking their children to another country where the custody laws might favor them.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In Hague Convention cases, any underlying child custody disputes must be decided by the Courts in the child’s home country. The Court in the country of wrongful removal may only adjudicate petitions to return the child to his or her home country.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>In order to win a petition for return, the Plaintiff must prove that the children were habitual residents of the home country, that they were removed in violation of the petitioning parent’s custody rights, and that the petitioning parent was exercising his or her custody rights at the time of wrongful removal. In the <i>Cillikova v. Cillik</i> case, the Mother had shared legal custody of the children as well as visitation rights prior to Father removing them from Slovokia.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Usu7tNQu33M/VuqyM38XnrI/AAAAAAAAACs/TGhLo_zoSvIugY_zbl2r459mEhq8dgdSw/s1600/MP900386054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Usu7tNQu33M/VuqyM38XnrI/AAAAAAAAACs/TGhLo_zoSvIugY_zbl2r459mEhq8dgdSw/s320/MP900386054.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The Removing parent may raise affirmative defenses, but the Hague Convention allows only six, and they are very narrowly construed by the courts. These defenses are:<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>1) grave risk of physical or psychological harm if the child is returned,<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>2) consent or acquiescence of the petitioning parent,<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>3) the child has become well-settled in its new environment, after at least one &nbsp;year,<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>4) returning the child would violate fundamental principles relating to the protection of human rights, &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5) the mature child objects to the return<br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;and<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>6) the petitioning parent was not actually exercising custodial rights at the time of wrongful removal.<br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <span style="color: #073763; font-size: large;"><b>Litigants should know that United States Courts usually grant affirmative defenses to wrongful removal only under extreme circumstances.&nbsp;</b></span><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Litigants can take many steps to prevent international child abduction. Many custody orders prohibit international travel with the children absent the written consent of both parties or the Court’s approval. If litigants are truly afraid one parent may take the children out of the country without telling the other parent, the litigants can ask that one party’s attorney, or the Court, hold the children’s passports for safekeeping. Litigants can also contact the <a href="http://travel.state.gov/content/childabduction/en/preventing/passport-issuance-alert-program.html">State Department</a> and ask that they flag the children’s passports.<br /><br /><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>When one parent wishes to take the children on an international vacation, litigants should make sure that country is a <a href="http://travel.state.gov/content/childabduction/en/country/hague-party-countries.html">signatory</a>&nbsp;of the Hague Convention. If a party is particularly concerned about international abduction, the party taking the international vacation may be required, by agreement, or by the Court, to post a bond, which will be refundable upon the parent’s safe return with the children. And, of course, if you think your child has been wrongfully removed from the United States, contact the <a href="http://travel.state.gov/content/childabduction/en/from.html">State Department</a> immediately, as well as an experienced attorney.<br /><br /><i style="background-color: #ffead6; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b style="background-color: white;">This blog was written by Jill Fitzgerald, third year law student at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and edited by Linda A. Kerns, Esquire.</b></i>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/international-child-abduction-and-hague.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-7477547069607753374Fri, 18 Mar 2016 14:00:00 +00002016-03-18T10:00:10.835-04:00above-guideline supportcar insurancechild supportdivorce settlementLooking Down the Road: New Jersey Child Support and Teenage DriversAfter college, car expenses and insurance can be some of the largest expenses for older children. In an intact family, parents decide together when the child can get a driver’s license, as well as who will pay for the child’s insurance, the amount of insurance coverage necessary, what kind of car the child would be allowed to drive, and whether the child would be required to contribute his or her own money.<br /><br />When families separate, making these decisions becomes more complicated. Parents may not always agree about what is best for the child. Sometimes, they must ask the Court to decide.<br /><br />In New Jersey, Child Support amounts are governed by the Child Support Guidelines. There is a rebuttable presumption that the amount of support calculated under the Guidelines is the correct amount. This means that the parties can only argue for additional (or lower) support when they can show “good cause” to adjust the Guideline amount. What constitutes “good cause” is subject to much judicial discretion.<br /><br />The New Jersey Child Support Guidelines take into account a number of ordinary children’s expenses, including, potentially, car insurance for an older child. <b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;">However, the Guideline amounts increase with the income of the parties, not the age of the child. A parent with a carefully balanced budget based on the Guidelines may find it difficult to make ends meet when suddenly faced with a large car insurance bill.</span></b><br /><br />In a recent New Jersey Trial Court opinion,<u><a href="https://www.judiciary.state.nj.us/trial_court_opinions/Fichter-v-Fichter.pdf"> Fichter v. Fichter</a></u>, FM-15-469-11, October 21, 2015, the Court found that the need to provide the parties’ child with sufficient car insurance was “good cause” to require support beyond the Guideline amount. While this case did not create binding law, it provides some guidance as to the way other New Jersey courts may address this issue.<br /><br />In <u>Fichter</u>, the parties’ divorce settlement stated that the non-custodial Father would contribute to the cost of car insurance for the older child, who was seventeen at the time, in addition to regular child support under the Guidelines. However, the agreement was silent as to whether Father would eventually be responsible for the car insurance of the younger child, who was only thirteen at the time.<br /><br />When the younger child obtained her license, she became the primary user of the older child’s car, which was approximately ten years old. Mother asked Father to contribute to the child’s car insurance, but never received a response, so she filed for child support modification with the Court.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QFvmh4_XGvA/VuqqfZsWT_I/AAAAAAAAACc/9QNrQDC_VtQSz85WAOoE8Lm61pcnEBIJw/s1600/MP900439430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QFvmh4_XGvA/VuqqfZsWT_I/AAAAAAAAACc/9QNrQDC_VtQSz85WAOoE8Lm61pcnEBIJw/s320/MP900439430.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />Examining the circumstances, particularly the parties’ intent that Father would provide insurance to the older child, and noting that Father could afford to contribute to the younger child’s car insurance, the Court in <u>Fitcher</u> found for Mother and increase Father’s support. Because the child was still in high school, the Court did not require the child to contribute to her own insurance.<br /><br />The Court noted other facts that contributed to its decision, such as the reasonableness of the vehicle selected for the child, the importance of providing more than the minimum coverage due to the abundance of teen driving accidents, and the need to insure the child as the primary driver of the vehicle, rather than simply add her to her Mother’s plan as a licensed driver.<br /><br />When negotiating a support agreement for older children, or even younger teenagers, Litigants should consider who will bear the cost of a teenage driver. In some cases, the parties may do best to avoid the issue altogether, and postpone the decision until the time arises. Litigants should keep in mind that an agreement that looks reasonable today may look much less reasonable five years down the road. <span style="color: #38761d; font-size: large;"><b>Finally, Litigants should consider how their decisions with respect to an older child may affect their expected contributions to a younger child’s eventual expenses.</b></span> Do not give in to an older child’s request for his or her own car, or help the child pay for insurance, unless you are willing to provide similar support for younger children.<br /><br /><i style="background-color: #ffead6; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><b style="background-color: white;">This blog was written by Jill Fitzgerald, third year law student at Drexel University Thomas R. Kline School of Law and edited by Linda A. Kerns, Esquire.</b></i>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/looking-down-road-new-jersey-child.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Jill Fitzgerald)0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12178355.post-7153157747694905244Thu, 17 Mar 2016 04:30:00 +00002016-03-17T00:30:06.371-04:00Happy St. Patrick's Day<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&amp;id=OIP.M3c83681f72f95eb1c79f0629a834b535o0&amp;w=300&amp;h=240&amp;c=0&amp;pid=1.9&amp;rs=0&amp;p=0" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wishing you the luck of the Irish!</td></tr></tbody></table>http://lindakernslaw.blogspot.com/2016/03/happy-st-patricks-day.htmlnoreply@blogger.com (Linda A. Kerns)0